This bill amends the Michigan election law by making several key changes to the procedures for calling special elections and filling vacancies in the state legislature. Notably, it mandates that the governor "shall" call a special election within 30 days of a vacancy occurring in the office of a state senator or representative, as opposed to the previous language which allowed for discretion. Additionally, the bill specifies that if a vacancy occurs after the primary election but before the next general election, the governor "shall" direct that the vacancy be filled at that general election, ensuring a more timely response to legislative vacancies.

Further amendments include the requirement that special elections must be held on regular election dates, with specific provisions for school districts to call special elections under certain conditions. The bill also clarifies the process for candidate selection by political parties in the event of a vacancy and establishes stricter guidelines for petition requirements for school district elections. Overall, these changes aim to streamline the election process and ensure that legislative vacancies are addressed promptly and effectively.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 168.178